If you’re a local business owner in Staines or one of our neighbouring areas like Twickenham, Richmond, Windsor or Teddington, you’re no stranger to how quickly the world of digital marketing evolves. One minute you’re told to focus on keywords, the next it’s all about AI, mobile, or email. And while it can be overwhelming, staying aware of what’s changing (and what isn’t) is crucial if you want to keep growing your business in 2025.
Here at The Bright Click, we keep a close eye on emerging trends so you don’t have to. We’ve pulled together the 7 digital marketing trends that we believe local businesses need to know right now and, more importantly, how you can make them work for you.
1. AI-Powered Search Is Reshaping Google
Search engines aren’t just showing links anymore. With the rise of AI-driven tools like Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE) and Bing Copilot, search results are now being summarised into quick, AI-generated answers.
That means your customers might get the answer they need without clicking your website. Unless, of course, your content is the one being summarised.
What you can do:
- Optimise content with clear headings and questions
- Add FAQ sections to key pages
- Use conversational language that mirrors how people actually search
If someone in Windsor asks, “How can I advertise my business locally?” – you want your site to answer that question clearly.
2. Zero-Click Search & Featured Snippets Are On the Rise
“Zero-click” searches are where users get the answer they need straight from the results page. Think featured snippets, knowledge panels, and Google Maps listings. In some industries, more than 60% of searches end without a click.
What you can do:
- Use schema markup (your web developer can help)
- Structure answers using bullet points or numbered lists
- Include relevant local terms, like “digital marketing in Staines”
Positioning your site as the authority in your niche gives you a chance to appear in those featured sections.
3. E-E-A-T Is No Longer Optional
Google now heavily favours content that demonstrates E-E-A-T: Experience, Expertise, Authority, and Trust. For local businesses, that’s actually good news.
What you can do:
- Add bios for your team on your website
- Share testimonials and case studies
- Keep your Google Business Profile updated with reviews
We’ve found that for service-based businesses around Staines, displaying real results and human voices makes a huge difference.
4. Hyperlocal SEO Matters More Than Ever
It’s not just about being found in Surrey anymore; it’s about being found in Ashford, Egham, or Sunbury.
What you can do:
- List out your service areas clearly on your website
- Create content or blogs tailored to those specific areas
- Make sure your NAP (Name, Address, Phone number) is consistent across all platforms
Local search terms like “SEO agency Twickenham” or “email marketing help in Windsor” are the kind that convert.
5. First-Party Data Is Gold (So Start Emailing!)
As cookies fade out and privacy rules get tighter, your own customer data becomes more valuable than ever. Building a mailing list isn’t just a nice-to-have anymore; it’s a must.
What you can do:
- Add newsletter sign-up forms to your website
- Offer value in exchange for emails (e.g. guides, discounts, events)
- Send helpful, consistent campaigns, not just sales pitches
For local businesses, emails have a personal touch. That connection goes a long way.
6. Mobile-First Websites Win (Fast Ones, Too)
Most of your customers are searching on their phones. If your site doesn’t load quickly or isn’t mobile-friendly, you’re going to lose them fast.
What you can do:
- Make sure your website is responsive on all devices
- Test your load speed using tools like Google PageSpeed Insights
- Cut unnecessary clutter and make it easy to navigate
We build sites that are clean, quick and convert. Because flashy doesn’t always mean functional.
7. Visual & Interactive Content Gets More Engagement
People don’t just read anymore; they watch, click, scroll, and swipe.
What you can do:
- Add videos or reels to your homepage and service pages
- Use real photography (not just stock images)
- Share behind-the-scenes content on socials and embed it on-site
Visual storytelling builds trust. And for small, local businesses, it makes you feel more real.
Final Thoughts: Staying Ahead, Simply
You don’t need to master every trend on this list. But knowing where the digital world is heading helps you make better marketing decisions.
At The Bright Click, we work with businesses in Staines and beyond to turn trends into results. Whether you need a new website, want to improve your SEO, or aren’t sure where to start, we can help.
Let’s make 2025 your most visible year yet. Get in touch with our team.